Project Summary/Abstract
A diverse scientific workforce is essential to fostering scientific innovation and excellence and
providing safe and quality learning and work environments. Despite extensive efforts and some
noteworthy progress, certain groups' underrepresentation remains a concern for the health-
related scientific workforce. Undergraduate research experiences, such as summer research
programs, have been shown to increase learning skills, career ambitions, completion of a STEM
degree, and advancement to a graduate program for undergraduate students, particularly those
from underrepresented groups in science. In response to
PAR-21-168
"Summer Research
Education Experience Program (R25)", we propose the Syracuse University-Summer Training in
Alcohol Research (SU-STAR) program. The SU-STAR program aims to (1) recruit an annual
cohort of
five to seven undergraduate students from underrepresented groups
in science across
the nation who demonstrate academic potential as well as strong interests in alcohol and health
research and in advancing to a graduate school in related disciplines; (2) provide participants
with the opportunity to participate in a rigorous eight-week research internship and enrichment
activities, (3) conduct
ongoing evaluations during the summer program and bi-annual follow-ups
regarding the program's success in participant recruitment, retention, and educational and
career outcomes; and (4) disseminate program information and materials to the undergraduate
student body, academic units, and scientific community. Ultimately, this program will expand a
pipeline of diverse individuals in health research, which will enhance the science workforce's
inclusion and strengthen alcohol science by incorporating diverse perspectives and life
experiences.